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Conquering our Castles

Discover 263 castles across Aberdeenshire from dramatic cliff-top ruins to grand tower houses, each telling a story of battles, clans and centuries of Scottish history.

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A region built on Castles

With 263 castles scattered across the landscape, the North-east of Scotland has one of the greatest concentrations of fortifications anywhere in Europe. Each structure tells a story of clan rivalry, power and changing ways of life. Whether you visit grand estates or forgotten ruins, every castle adds another chapter to the region’s extraordinary past.

Iconic landmarks

Across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, some castles feel almost straight out of a storybook. The pink turrets of Craigievar Castle rise above the countryside, while the grand baronial architecture of Castle Fraser highlights centuries of noble living. Nearby, the beautifully preserved rooms and gardens of Crathes Castle reveal how Scotland’s lairds once lived, blending comfort, defence and prestige in equal measure.

Image: Crathes Castle, Banchory

Dramatic ruins

Not every castle survived intact and that’s part of their magic. Perched on sheer sea cliffs, Dunnottar Castle stands as one of Scotland’s most breathtaking strongholds, famous for sieges, royal visits and daring escapes. Further north, the haunting remains of Slains Castle overlook the North Sea, its silhouette inspiring tales of ghosts and even gothic literature.

Image: Slains Castle, Cruden Bay

Royal connections

The region’s castle heritage even extends to the British Royal Family. Nestled in the Cairngorms countryside, Balmoral Castle has served as a private residence of the monarchy since the time of Queen Victoria. Unlike defensive strongholds, Balmoral represents a different side of castle life, a retreat for leisure, hunting and Highland tradition, showing how castles evolved from fortresses into homes of comfort and status.

Image: Balmoral Castle, Ballater

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Aberdeenshire Castle Trail

Post Date: 13 Oct 2025

Known as Scotland's Castle Country, Aberdeenshire is home to some of the UK's most famous castles.

Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852, having been first leased in 1848. The Castle is an example of Scots Baronial architecture and is classified by Historic Scotland as a Category A listed building.